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Editorial:
Research
Preparation Schedule
PREPARATION
Applying to a
private school is a very stressful, competitive, multiple-part process. To
diminish much of the anguish it is important that your student is prepared
mentally, scholastically and socially for the challenges associated with
the admissions process and the rigors of a private school education.
Take the necessary time
to talk with your student about attending a school that is academically
challenging; stress the importance of good work habits necessary to take
full advantage of all educational opportunities; and expose them to as
many extracurricular activities as possible to peak and sustain their
interests.
Make sure that your
student has the tools to be competitive. There are several workbooks
available that offer detailed instruction and sample tests for the
required entrance examinations. A list of publications can be found in the
Publications section.
If necessary, supplement
their test preparation with additional tutoring. There are numerous
test-taking strategies that truly make a difference.
An admissions
application is much like a job application and the process should be
approached as such. Make at least two copies of all paperwork provided
before you begin filling them out. These duplicates can be used as drafts,
which can be erased and revised.
A good portion of a
private school admissions application form is dedicated to crafting
concise essays about your student. This task can be sometimes daunting for
both parent and student. A strategy to help focus more on your student’s
accomplishments and less of the actual task of “writing,” is to first
compile their résumé. Start by listing every accomplishment, special
talent and extraordinary moment your student has experienced. The
excitement generated from remembering and chronicling these events will
help you view your child through their experiences and deeds instead of
the unconditional love of a parent. This revised focus will aid in
crafting a clear message you would like to communicate to the admissions
officers.
Your student should be
as convinced as you are, that pursuing a private school education is to
their best interest and willing to do whatever is necessary to accomplish
it. This shared focus creates a positive attitude that will bolster your
student’s confidence and be apparent in the admissions interview.
Participating in as many social and informational events
sponsored by educational associations and the private schools you and your
student are interested in are excellent opportunities to observe the
school’s community and helps your family with visualizing what it would be
like to be a member.
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