Colleges Accepting Applications after May 1st

May 1^st has come and gone and although most seniors are very happy with their future homes, there are still students exploring alternative options.  Every year, the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), publishes a list of colleges and universities across the country that are still accepting applications for fall enrollment. The majority of schools have deadlines in late winter/early spring, and the student must deposit by May 1^st, to secure a spot. However, there are hundreds of colleges still looking to get more students in their seats, and will allow students to still apply, even though we are well into May. This is a good option for students who either have not been accepted to any schools, can’t afford the schools they were accepted into, or were wait listed at many of their schools.

So if you are interested, take a look at the list of schools, and if it makes sense for you, go ahead and apply!

Please click here for the entire list of colleges still accepting applications.

-Mr. Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA

SAT Details of Future Changes

As many of you know, the SAT will be drastically changing in the spring of 2016. This will mainly affect current freshmen and anyone younger. I personally see these changes as positive and I look forward to seeing how all of this works out. If you are a freshmen, parent of one, or just interested in the changes, please take a look at the changes from Kaplan Test Prep. Enjoy!

-Mr. Joe Korfmacher

College Spotlight- Saint Louis University

Recently, I have had the pleasure of traveling to nine colleges in Seattle, Portland, and Saint Louis. Visiting schools across the country give me great perspective and insight on the different programs and environments available to all students. Since I have always worked with students in the NYC area, I have noticed that most students and families are “stuck” in the 3-5 hour bubble of schools. Of course, there are hundreds of terrific colleges and universities in this part of the country; I hate to see students limit themselves. Traveling around the country has opened my eyes to some incredible places, and I am excited to share these experiences with all of you. In the coming weeks, I will highlight the schools I visited, and I hope that you will take a closer look at these schools and others, that you may not have thought about before.

The first university I would like to highlight is Saint LouisUniversity, most commonly referred to as SLU. Here are a few SLU ‘quick-hitters’:

SLU became the first university west of the Mississippi in 1818, and in 1927, became the first federally licensed school of Aviation.

SLU is a Jesuit University, and is often ranked as 1 of the top 5 Jesuit Universities in the country, and in 2013 was a Fiske “Best Buy School”. SLU also has a top 100 business program (AACSB accredited), has an incredible and unique engineering program, and is ranked as a research university.

SLU has just under 8,700 undergraduates, a 12-1 student/professor ratio, 24.4 average classroom size, and houses over 100 undergraduate programs. The most recent retention percentage from freshmen to sophomore year is an outstanding 88% and growing!

Middle 50% for admissions- GPA: 3.81 (weighted), SAT: 1080-1330, ACT: 25-29

Scholarships Available- Merit awards range from $3,000-$16,000 and there is a Presidential (full tuition) scholarship available, where applicants usually have a 3.85 and 30 (ACT) or 1330 (SAT). SLU has no limit to the amount of Presidential Scholarships they give out. The average total package they give out to students is $24,000.

SLU’s top 10 programs, in reverse order are communications, chemistry, bio-chemistry, biomedical engineering, health sciences, psychology, physical therapy, nursing, biology, and STILL DECIDING. ‘Still Deciding’ is the number one “major” for incoming freshmen. Students, who do this, can take any classes during the first 1-2 years, and as long as they have a 2.5 GPA, they can then go into any major they want (except for physical and occupational therapy).

Unique Programs:

Accounting Scholars- Students need 3.6 GPA and 30 or 1330 test scores. Can get Bachelors and Masters in 5 years and are able to sit for CPA exam right away.

Pre-Law Scholars- Students need a very good academic record and 28 or 1250 tests scores. If accepted into program at SLU freshmen, they are guaranteed entry into the SLU law school, which has a very new building in downtown Saint Louis.

Health Sciences- SLU is one of 27 schools that have a Masters track for athletic training, which is a direct admit as a freshmen. They are also only 1 of 2 schools in country that have a registered dietician (RD) and culinary arts major.

Parks College ofEngineering, Aviation and Technology- Houses the first federally certified flight school in the nation. Aviation students will graduate with over 250 hours of flight hours. There are numerous engineering degrees, including flight science, aviation management, and a global aviation track. This school also has a 3-2 program with Washington University in Saint Louis, where students can get a BS and MS in chemical engineering.

Fun Facts:

SLU has tremendous study abroad opportunities, which is highlighted by their own campus in Madrid.

SLU has D1 sports, andclub/intramural opportunities for all students. Their top sport is men’s soccer, where they have won 10 NCAA titles.

SLU has a gorgeous, green campus, with incredible academic, athletic, and housing facilities. It is also only 5-10 minutes from downtown Saint Louis. Perfect for students who want to be near a city, but still have that traditional college campus experience.

Their mascot is the “Billiken” which is a mythical creature that represents everything as they ought to be.

Overall Thoughts:

I have visited many colleges and universities across the country, and to be perfectly honest, I was blown away by Saint Louis University. This is place where I think most students can be very happy at, and I look forward to recommending it to students and families for years to come. SLU has a diverse curriculum with some cutting edge programs, and top notch academics. Students, who want to be teachers to CPAs to pilots, can all find a home at SLU. It also has the safe, open, diverse, and dynamic environment that will make people of all backgrounds feel at home. This is not a school full of cliques, but rather is a place that is one community open to everyone. SLU is a school that may not be on the radar for many families in the NYC, but it really should. SLU’s popularity is growing, and this is a special school in the Midwest. Wherever you may be thinking in terms of academics or college environment, Saint Louis University is certainly worth a look…and I doubt you will be disappointed.

-Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA

GAP Year Opportunity

For those who do not know, a GAP year is when a student does not attend college right after graduating from high school. Instead the student uses this time to intern, do research, travel, or anything else with the plan to matriculate into college the following year. GAP years are becoming more and more popular, and if done correctly, can be a great experience. A GAP year definitely is not for everyone, and it can be tough to get yourself back in student mode and attend college, but if done right, it can be an incredible experience. I wanted to share this following GAP year experience available through American University in Washington DC that recently came across my desk.

“With over 70 years of experience developing and teaching experiential courses through the successful Washington Semester and Washington Mentorship programs, we are expanding our curriculum to focus on recent high school graduates who are taking a year off for experiential endeavors before starting college. The American University Gap Program will welcome its first class in fall 2014.”

“The AU Gap Program is an opportunity for students to intern in Washington, DC, while taking a class and earning college credit at American University. The program consists of a Mentored Field Practicum (internship) and a topical seminar of the student’s choice in American Politics, Global Business and Trade, or International Affairs.  Students can join the AU Gap Program for a semester or take a full year; earning a total of 7 college credits per semester.”

Click here for more information: AU GAP Year

-Mr. Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

It is just about April 1^st, and almost all college decisions have been mailed out. From what I am seeing, it looks as if it has been another super competitive year for students at colleges across the country, especially the highly selective ones. Although we hope all students have some good news to focus on, I know that most students have their share of denials and waitlists. If you were denied from a school, at least you went for it, as the only thing worse than a denial is the regret of never applying to the school in the first place. Also, if you are still in love with the school, you can always apply next year.

If you were placed on the waiting list, hang in there…it could be a long time before or if you hear from the school. Here are a few tips if you find yourself on this list:

·         When third quarter grades are available, ask your counselor to send the grades to these schools

·         Make sure you alert the schools that you intend to stay on the waitlist

·         Email your admissions counselor at the college and ask him/her if there is anything else you can do to help with your candidacy

·         Unless you are advised by the school, do not send additional letters of recommendation

·         Most likely, you will not hear a decision until May 1^st. Make sure you deposit at your top choice, where you were accepted. If you are eventually taken off the waitlist, you can always pull-out of the other school (but most likely will not receive the deposit back)

For those schools you have been accepted to, congratulations! Now it’s time to decide where you will be attending for the next four years. Make sure you continue to do your research, including visiting the schools again. Review the financial aid and scholarship packages and make an informed decision. Do not rush this choice! You should choose the school that is the best fit for you academically, personally, and financially!

From March 29^th to April 3^rd, I will be in the Pacific Northwest visiting numerous colleges near Seattle and Portland. Please visit my blog in the coming weeks for personal feedback and pictures from my trip!

-Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA

SAT Changes-Starting 2016

As many of you know by now, the SAT is getting a facelift in the next couple of years. These changes most likely will only affect current freshmen and the classes after them, as the new SAT will not appear until spring of 2016. However, I wanted to give you a breakdown of the basics of the changes that are coming our way. Overall, the SAT wanted to create a test that is tougher to prep for and is more relevant to what students are learning in the classroom. Below are the big changes:

·         The SAT is going back to 1600 points coming only from math and critical reading (2400 points had a good run, but it will be no more starting in 2016)

·         The essay will be optional (as with the ACT, the essay will be optional, but I would imagine students will want to take this part of the SAT) The essay will also be a combination of reading, comprehending, analyzing, and writing.

·         As with the ACT, there no longer will be a guessing penalty. That means the student will not lose points for a wrong answer.

·         Math will focus on three areas: linear equations; complex equations or functions; and ratios, percentages, and proportional reasoning. Also, calculators will only be permitted for part of the math section.

·         The reading and writing sections will include source documents from a wide range of areas, even science.

·         There will be fewer questions with a greater focus on in-depth analysis of content

These are exciting times for the SATs and students who will be taking them. If you are a freshmen in high school (or younger), or a parent of one, these changes will matter and it’s never too early to start getting prepared!

-Mr. Korfmacher, MA

Unique Community Service Opportunities

We all know that college admissions is a competitive world. With many of the selective schools having their pick of students, every part of an applicant is reviewed, and just one aspect of the applicant can potentially make the student stand-out among his peers. Colleges take a holistic approach during the admissions process, considering the academic and personal characteristics of the applicant (i.e. academic record, standardized test scores, résumé, essay, recommendations etc.) All of these pieces of the college application puzzle are essential, but the one I want to showcase today is the résumé; and more importantly, community service as a part of the résumé.

Community service and volunteering are obviously very important to take part in to help others who may be less fortunate or to help a good cause. It doesn’t hurt that it can also look very good on the college application. There are hundreds of ways to help out in the community and every little bit counts. However, I would suggest pushing yourself when it comes to community service. Take part in something that requires more of your time and gives you the chance to organize and lead. For example, starting your own community service project will show colleges not only that you are a caring and giving person, but that you are ambitious, have leadership skills, and so much more. All of these attributes will impress admissions counselors and will translate well to how you may perform at the college level. I urge everyone to use their imagination with this, and a great place to start could be an organization called Team Fox. This is a volunteer fundraising program that directly supports the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Anyone can become a member of Team Fox, and you can create your own fundraising project based on your own interests and using any means necessary. I think this is a great organization because you are helping an important cause in ending Parkinson’s disease. However, you are allowed the freedom to create whatever type of fundraising effort to help raise money.

Take a look at the Team Fox page (www.teamfox.org) and feel free to get started right away. This is just one suggestion, but hopefully it gets your creative juices flowing. A unique community service role will not only help society become a better place, but it will certainly help all types of applicants to stand-out in the college application process. Every little bit counts, so get out there and become an agent of change!

 Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA

Don't Stop the College Search Now

It is almost February, and the college application season has been long, and draining. You most likely have put hours upon hours of your life researching, visiting, contemplating, and applying to colleges. This is a huge decision, and all the hard work will pay off. However, if you are not satisfied with your college list, you do not just have to settle with what you have now. There is still time to search for and apply to colleges across the country.

Yes, January 15th was a big day for regular decision deadlines, but there are still hundreds of great colleges and universities that are still accepting applications. If you are not satisfied with your college list, or you have been accepted into a few colleges, but the the financial aid award letter doesn't offer as much as you like, keep looking. There are still a ton of schools that have deadlines in February and March, and even some that are rolling admissions and go into the summer. Below I will list a few prominent universities that are still accepting applications and merit scholarships. Later in the season, I will post the site that lists schools that accept applications even past May, so look out for that. As always, best of luck throughout the process, put all of your effort into it, and everything will work out!

Just a few schools out of the hundreds still accepting applications:

Arizona State University
Bryant University
College of Charleston
University of Dayton
DePaul University
Gettysburg College
LeMoyne College
Loyola University New Orleans
Manhattan College
Marist College
University of Pittsburgh
Saint Louis University
St. John's University
The University of Scranton
Temple University
Xavier University

And so much more!!

-Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA

Visiting Colleges Virtually

As I am sure you know, visiting college campuses is one of the most important parts of the college research process. Unless you are commuting from home, the college or university that you choose to attend will be where you eat, sleep, and live for at least four years. College campuses vary in so many ways, and you want to make sure you are comfortable and happy with what the school offers. Elements that should be considered are the dorm rooms, the athletic facilities, classroom sizes and what they offer, technology centers, libraries, green space, and much more. When visiting schools,  you need to ask yourself if this is a college you could see yourself living at. If you are uncomfortable with the school setting and what they offer in terms of their physical plant, it may affect your overall happiness and academic well-being at the school.

Although, it is not always possible to visit every school before you apply, you DEFINITELY should visit the school before committing to attend. While you have until May 1st to make the decision, if you are short on time, virtual tours are the next big thing in college admissions. I recently came across a website called YOUVISIT. This site offers virtual tours of hundreds of colleges across the country, as has current students lead the tour. I encourage you to check out the site if you are just starting the college search process or even if you are a senior and you are still looking to add another school or two to your list. So keep up the good research and have fun visiting the colleges, whether you are actually on the campus and walking around, or sitting on your couch with your laptop!

Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA

FAFSA Finally Here!

Seniors and parents, January 1st has finally come. Yes, the holidays were great, and celebrating the New Year is always a blast…but the biggest event to celebrate is that the FAFSA is finally live. OK, so completing the FAFSA isn’t the most fun activity in the world, but it is important helping to pay for college.

In order to receive any financial aid for college, students and their parents must complete the FAFSA online. The website is www.fafsa.ed.gov and the very first letter in the FAFSA acronym stands for “free.” (Avoid imposters such as FAFSA.com that will charge you without offering more than what is available at the official FAFSA site. The FAFSA (or Free Application for Federal Student Aid) will use the family’s previous tax returns to estimate how much a family can afford to pay for college and how much aid they can receive. Aid in the form of grants, loans, and scholarships can potentially come from completing the FAFSA.

In the simplest of terms, a family will complete the FAFSA, and the system will eventually generate an expected family contribution (EFC). This is what FAFSA believes the family can afford out of pocket for the student’s education. The EFC is sent to colleges who will subtract it from their cost of attendance. The difference is called the student's "need." Some colleges will meet this need completely, others may not meet it at all, and others still will fall somewhere in the middle.

The FAFSA is available online right now, and really should be completed soon. There is no need to wait until the new tax returns are available, as last year’s are accepted and often some schools will have deadlines that are pretty soon. You can estimate what the numbers will be for this year, using last year's figures. Then, once the current year figures are in, you can send the updated ones into the FAFSA. Though some families may not want to spend the time filling out cumbersome FAFSA forms, I encourage all families to complete the FAFSA at least prior to freshmen year. You never know if you may qualify for financial aid, including grants or scholarships! So enough reading,  get your paperwork together and go tackle the FAFSA!!

-Joseph D. Korfmacher, MA